H.R. 5587: Bill speeds up geothermal energy projects on private land

01 — The Text

What.

Exempts geothermal drilling on state and private land from federal permits if the U.S. owns less than 50% of subsurface rights.
Removes requirement for environmental review under federal law (NEPA) for these geothermal projects.
Waives endangered species and historic preservation reviews, unless the state lacks its own preservation law.

02 — The Stakes

Energy companies win: faster project approval and lower regulatory costs for geothermal development.
Environmental groups lose: fewer independent federal safeguards for wildlife, water, and historic sites.
States gain power: become the primary reviewer instead of federal agencies, but only if they have existing historic preservation laws.

03 — The Path

House passed it 231-186 on April 23, 2026. Now in Senate committee awaiting hearings (most recent: July 2026).
Senate must vote before this advances further—passage is uncertain with the narrow House margin.
Track the bill at Congress.gov or contact your senator to weigh in on the regulatory tradeoff.

Legislative History

Jul 15, 2026 — Committee on Energy and Natural Resources Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining. Hearings held.
Apr 28, 2026 — Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Apr 23, 2026 — Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
Apr 23, 2026 — On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 231 - 186 (Roll no. 137). (text: CR H3073)
Apr 23, 2026 — Passed/agreed to in House: On passage Passed by the Yeas and Nays: 231 - 186 (Roll no. 137). (text: CR H3073)
Apr 23, 2026 — The previous question was ordered pursuant to the rule.
Apr 23, 2026 — DEBATE - The House proceeded with one hour of debate on H.R. 5587.
Apr 23, 2026 — Rule provides for consideration of H.R. 4690, H. Res. 1182, H.R. 1897 and H.R. 5587. The resolution provides for consideration of H.R. 4690, H. Res. 1182, H.R. 1897, and H.R. 5587 under a closed rule with one hour of general debate on each measure. The resolution provides for one motion to recommit on H.R. 4690, H.R. 1897, and H.R. 5587.